A £4bn electric vehicle battery factory is set to be built in Somerset, playing a key role in the UK's transition to sustainable energy and advanced manufacturing.
Agratas is developing the battery cell manufacturing facility on the Gravity Smart Campus, south of Bristol, near Bridgwater. The site will feature three separate buildings with associated ancillary structures, making it the largest car battery manufacturing plant in the UK and one of the most significant of its kind in Europe.
A leading M&E specialist has been appointed to deliver the mechanical and electrical installation for the project. The first building and its ancillary structures will cover a built area of 244,710m². With construction preparations now underway, the facility is scheduled to be operational in 2026.
Senior Mechanical Engineer – Electric Vehicle Battery Factory
Location: Somerset
Reporting to: Senior Project Manager
Project Value: £4bn
Role Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Engineer to support the delivery of the mechanical installation on a major electric vehicle battery factory project in Somerset. This facility will be the largest of its kind in the UK and a key part of the country’s drive toward sustainable energy and advanced manufacturing.
Reporting to the Senior Project Manager, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the successful design, coordination, and implementation of mechanical systems. You will be responsible for technical oversight, compliance, and providing engineering solutions to support project delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide technical leadership on the mechanical aspects of the project, ensuring design and installation meet required standards.
- Oversee the coordination of mechanical systems with electrical and civil disciplines to ensure seamless integration.
- Support the Senior Project Manager in monitoring project progress, identifying risks, and implementing solutions.
- Review and approve mechanical designs, specifications, and installation methodologies.
- Ensure all mechanical works comply with industry regulations, health and safety standards, and project requirements.
- Assist in procurement processes by reviewing technical submissions and ensuring materials and equipment align with project specifications.
- Manage subcontractors, providing technical guidance and ensuring work is completed to the highest standards.
- Conduct site inspections, quality checks, and system testing to validate performance and compliance.
- Prepare technical reports, risk assessments, and progress updates for key stakeholders.
- Drive innovation and continuous improvement within the mechanical engineering scope.
Requirements
- Extensive experience in a Senior Mechanical Engineer role within large-scale industrial, manufacturing, or M&E projects.
- Strong knowledge of mechanical building services, including HVAC, piping, and process utilities.
- Proven ability to work within a multi-disciplinary team and coordinate with other engineering disciplines.
- In-depth understanding of UK health and safety regulations, construction standards, and compliance requirements.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to provide technical solutions on-site.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Relevant industry qualifications (e.g., HNC/HND/Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Building Services).
- Professional accreditation (e.g., CEng or working towards) is desirable.
- SMSTS, CSCS, and First Aid certifications are advantageous.
This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a flagship project that will shape the future of UK manufacturing and sustainable energy. If you are a motivated and experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer, we’d love to hear from you.